WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Walter B. Jones (R-NC) today voiced opposition to the Senate’s adoption of an amendment by Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA) to H.R. 1585 – the Fiscal Year 2008 Defense Authorization Act – that would create federal penalties for certain hate crimes, including those based on gender, disability and sexual orientation. The Senate adopted the amendment today by voice vote.

“This type of extraneous measure does not belong in the Defense Authorization Act,” Congressman Jones said. “It is unconscionable to delay the things our military needs – especially during a time of war – in order to pass a measure that has nothing to do with our military. If the Senate wants to move hate crimes legislation, it should do so as a freestanding bill.”

Congressman Jones opposes federal hate crimes legislation, and has consistently voted against such measures, including H.R. 1592 – the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2007 – which passed the House of Representatives in May of this year.

For additional information or to schedule an interview with Congressman Jones, please contact Kathleen Joyce at (202) 225-3415.